How To Fill Gap Between Above Ground Pool And Deck? Quick Answer

8 Frequently Asked Questions About Care And Maintenance Of Decking Boards

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From barbecues to lounging in the evening, a patio is a great way to enjoy the great outdoors without leaving home. But eventually it will require maintenance to keep it looking pristine and structurally sound. Let’s take a look at how to deal with the 8 most common problems that can arise over the life of your deck.

1) How to remove stains and discoloration

Whether you have a wood or composite deck, you will have to deal with stains and discoloration over time. This can be caused by mold, especially on composite decking. A mold problem is an even greater problem if your patio is in a shady area or stays wet throughout the day. However, mold is not just a problem unique to composite decks. Wooden terraces also have to deal with mould, algae and mildew.

To see if the black spots on your deck are mold, put a drop of undiluted bleach on one spot. If it goes away after a few minutes, you can clean your deck with a mild detergent and rinse with a solution of four parts water and one part liquid bleach. On your composite deck, use a soft-bristled brush and warm, soapy water to remove mold or mildew.

2) How to prevent slippery decking

Mold and mildew can not only leave stains on your deck, they can also cause your deck to become slippery. After removing the mold or mildew, apply a water-resistant stain and allow to dry for at least 48 hours. If you live in a rainy or humid area, you can add a mildewcide to the stain for further protection.

If your deck seems particularly prone to slippery areas, consider applying a marine-grade anti-slip decking product. This type of product contains sand in the color to provide extra traction. Finally, you can attach self-adhesive strips with a coarse-grained surface to the front edges of the steps to provide additional support there as well.

3) How to repair warped decking

One of the most common problems with wooden decking is warping. This usually occurs when the deck is not properly weather treated or when it is exposed to a lot of harsh weather conditions. Badly warped boards are easy to spot as they have extreme curvature and nails are likely to pop out. Boards that are just starting to warp are easy to spot when you’re eye level with the deck.

Once you spot a warped board that needs replacing, use a pry bar to remove it from the deck. Use a board that is not warped to get the measurements for cutting your new plank of wood. Slide the new board into place and drive two galvanized nails into each section of cross member to secure the new board to the deck.

4) How to fill gaps in decking

While you may be tempted to fill gaps in your deck with wood filler or caulk, the natural movement of the planks can eventually cause the materials to separate and make the gaps worse. However, you can use ropes to easily fill in the gaps. Then, even if the gaps change size, you can just fill it up with new rope.

After cleaning the deck, cut a sufficient amount of natural fiber rope to match the length of each gap. Do not use synthetic rope as stains and paint will not adhere to the material. Make sure the rope is slightly wider than the gap so you have a tight fit. Next, pour stain or paint that goes with your deck into a bucket and place the rope in the bucket. Let it sit long enough for it to reach the desired color.

After the rope dries, insert it into one end of the gap and use a flathead screwdriver to push the rope into the gap until you reach the other end of the board. Use a utility knife to cut the end of the rope and repeat the same process to fill any other gaps.

5) How to replace deck boards

If you have damaged sections in any of your deck boards, you can replace them with new pieces to keep your deck strong and looking good. First, cut out the bad parts with a jigsaw. If you want your new boards to match the old pieces, you need to replace the bad pieces with the same type of wood. After removing the board, smell it to see if you can identify the species. If not, take a sample to the lumberyard and a member of staff will help you match the boards.

Measure the length of the space you want your new board to cover and use a circular saw to cut the wood to size. For a smooth cut, turn the board over so you start cutting at the bottom of the board. Circular saw teeth cut from the bottom up, positioning the board this way to cut the underside of the board more cleanly. Also, when cutting the board, make sure that there are no knots at the end. This could weaken the board and cause warping.

6) How to restore the patio color

The best way to restore color to your patio is to repaint or stain it. Choose a stain that contains either paraffin or oil to prevent moisture from penetrating the wood. If you’re not into a weathered and gray look, you should also look for a stain that contains UV blockers to prevent the sun’s rays from damaging the paint. Finally, if your area is affected by wood-eating bugs, choose a stain that also contains an insecticide.

If you decide to paint your patio, make sure you use an alkyd primer or stain blocking oil before painting. To apply stain or paint, use a paint roller or pump sprayer. Be sure to step back every few minutes to examine the finish and check for an even coat.

If you want to touch up small areas like scratches and scuffs on your composite deck, try a touch-up concealer.

7) Maintenance of a wooden terrace

Wood rot is a major problem for wood decking. If your deck is made of pressure-treated wood, which is rated for ground contact, it will be more resistant to decay. On the other hand, if it is made of untreated wood, there is a higher risk of rot. However, any wood can rot, especially if left wet long enough. Most rot occurs in hard-to-see places, such as B. on the underside of steps and under decking boards, so crawl under your deck if possible when looking for rotten boards.

If you find a board with rot less than half an inch deep, you can leave it where it is. However, boards with greater rot will need to be replaced. Use a pry bar to remove the rotten planks and replace them with a pressure-treated and rot-resistant plank.

8) How to repair deck scratches

Composite decking is prone to scratches and scrapes from heavy play or moving patio furniture. Solutions to this problem vary by product type and manufacturer. Most manufacturers recommend not working on the scuffs or scratches as they will blend in with the rest of the deck over time. If you have a large or noticeable scratch, other manufacturers recommend using a soldering iron to even out the scratch and fuse it to the rest of the deck. If you have a deep scratch or severe damage, you may need to replace the entire circuit board.

With these DIY decking care tips, you can continue enjoying your outdoor space and keep your deck looking beautiful for years to come.

Did we miss something? Let us know in the comment section below.

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Above ground pools are a popular outdoor recreation area for families. But these sparkling blue backyard features can feel separate from the rest of your landscape. This is where proper landscaping comes into play. We show you how to spice up your above ground pool area and make it an integral part of your backyard oasis.

Plan fences first

Good fences make good neighbors and good pool owners. A pool fence is the first thing to consider before planning an above ground swimming pool. The International Swimming Pool and Spa Code sets minimum standards for swimming pools, hot tubs and water features, including fencing standards for private pools.

Even if the pool wall represents a barrier for smaller swimmers, experts agree that this is not enough. Install a fence or barrier at the top of the pool wall and secure the entrance with a detachable or gated ladder.

Your city, county, and state determine exactly how these standards are applied in your area. Check with your local authority for building and fencing codes that apply to you.

Make safety your top priority and you’ll have years of fun and peace of mind.

build walkway

Above ground pools aren’t surrounded by concrete like in-ground pools, so add a walkway instead. Nobody wants to lug dirt and weed into a freshly cleaned pool. Set up simple stepping stones or build something more elaborate, like a B. A paved walkway to keep your feet and pool clean.

Choose plants wisely

Like the right blazer, the right plants can give your poolside a polished, pulled-together look. Before you begin landscaping your pool surround, consider these things:

how much sun do you have

Most above ground pools are in a full sun area. Then choose plants that thrive in full sun. If the area gets partial shade during the day, choose partial shade plants instead.

Consider the root structure of the plant

Plants with extensive root systems can grow under the pool liner and cause a bumpy landing for your feet. Here are a few tips to avoid this problem:

Avoid planting trees near the pool and avoid placing a pool within reach of existing tree roots. When planting a tree, know how wide the roots will grow, and plant even farther away to be extra careful.

Plant shrubs with care. Know how deep and wide the roots grow. Also know how difficult it is to remove them when you want to do a landscape makeover. Finally, consider whether your bushes need regular pruning.

For a low-maintenance alternative, go rootless and use mulch or rocks. See “How to Install a Basic Above Ground Pool Enclosure” below.

Planting for a saltwater pool

If you have a saltwater pool, make sure your nearby plants can use a little salt spray. Some plants are extremely sensitive and cannot tolerate salt, while others are real beach bums.

If you live in a Coastal or Northern state, check out your state’s co-op expansion resources online. Salt tolerant landscaping is a hot topic in coastal areas along beaches and in northern states where salt is used to remove ice from roads.

Palm trees and coastal grasses are often salt tolerant, easy to care for, and popular around pools.

Pro tip: Find out what plants work well for other saltwater pool owners in the area and do the same.

Will pool chlorine harm my plants?

According to the Colorado State University Extension, chlorinated water has no long-term effects on soil microorganism populations. As such, a few excessive splashes of pool water are unlikely to harm plants near an above ground chlorine pool.

What plants are best around an above ground pool?

Evergreen: Evergreens are ideal for planting next to an above ground pool (or any pool) as they have little to no leaf litter. No one wants the added chore of skimming leaves from the pool if they can avoid it. Forego the deciduous plants and choose mainly evergreen plants for your poolscape planting.

Grasses: Large grasses, such as feather sedge, are popular additions to pool edges. When planted en masse they provide privacy and a beautiful swaying effect when the wind blows. Some ornamental grasses require annual pruning, so plan for this in your landscaping budget.

Potted Plants: Some homeowners choose to use mulch or rocks on the sides of the pool and add potted plants farther from the pool (such as along a walkway or on the deck).

Well-placed pots offer an opportunity to add splashes of color with flowering annuals or flowering perennials. As a bonus, you don’t have to worry about leaves or roots in the pool. If you live in a colder climate, you can even bring them indoors for the winter.

Privacy: If you want some privacy in your pool area, plan to adorn your yard with hedges, a privacy fence, layered planting, or implement other garden privacy strategies.

Other considerations:

Avoid plants with spikes and thorns next to the pool wall.

If you don’t like the more economical aesthetics of your backyard pool, cover it with siding to enhance its appearance. Bamboo privacy screens and wooden slats are DIY alternatives to the plastic look of many walls. Alternatively, a full surround deck provides the same effect.

Other landscaping ideas for above ground pools

Paving stones are another popular way to surround an above ground pool. Paving stones keep out weeds and provide a polished look around the pool. You can even use the pavers as a walkway and connect them around the pool for a pulled together look.

Many above ground pool homeowners apply mulch or rocks against the pool wall and leave it at that. When you grow bushes, many will need pruning, and some (not all) grasses will need annual pruning as well. Then there are the roots and the mature size of the plant to consider.

If you want to get started super easy, here’s a way:

To install a simple, above-ground pool edge:

Attach landscape fabric around the perimeter

Add a rim or edging to the pool wall to prevent rocks, mulch or debris from getting under the pool wall

Place mulch or rocks on top of the landscape fabric

Add a border or edging to the outside edge (boulder, rubber edging, steel, wood, brick, etc.)

If you choose to go this route, don’t miss out on colorful blooms or tall, majestic grass near your pool. Just keep them farther away from the wall to make your maintenance easier and hassle-free.

Treats for insects

Pests can be a problem for some homeowners. If you know you have a termite problem, have your termite pest treated poolside. Or, if you have an annual termite inspection, ask your pest professional if termite treatment around the pool is something you need.

Ant treatments can be DIY. Regardless of whether you have ants in the garden or not, use preventive treatment. Ants can eat holes in the bottom of the liner and leak water from the pool.

Take your favorite ant preventative and apply it along the bottom wall of the pool as often as the label recommends. Don’t skip the part of the pool wall under the patio and apply it consistently during the warm season as the ants go dormant in the winter.

Pro tip: If you’re not the DIY pest control type, ask your local exterminator to take care of it instead.

Immerse yourself in decks

If you want something a little fancier, ask your pool builder if they also build above-ground pool decks. Decks around your in-ground pool, like any other deck, can range from simple to sublime. Decks can be partial or surround the entire pool. It’s up to your taste and your budget.

Other advantages of above ground pool decks:

Decks also serve as covers for your pool pump, various pool gear and pool toys, protecting them from the elements and making the pool look nicer too.

Decks increase your outdoor living space, giving you more space to relax and entertain.

If you want to go super chic, build a gazebo for shade. Some homeowners build a pergola over part of the pool, which you could decorate with climbing vines or other shade plants.

Make a splash with seating

One reason to consider a patio around your pool is that it offers the opportunity to add seating. Decks have space for chairs or umbrellas, so those who want to swim and those who don’t want to swim can enjoy poolside time together.

Add lights to lengthen the day

If you enjoy swimming in the pool and gazing at the stars, you probably need some lighting. Install at least some lighting along the walkway and along the stair railing for safety measures. Adding lights around the perimeter, whether shorter solar lights or tall, elegant tiki torches, allows swimmers to enjoy even more light.

If you want something more sophisticated, install pool lights along the inside walls of the pool or buy lights that float in the pool to illuminate the water while you swim. These are available from Amazon or your favorite pool supply store.

Also, don’t forget about the many color options. Red, white and blue would be perfect for a 4th of July swim party.

If you’re too busy enjoying the fleeting summer season, let one of our local lawn care professionals take care of your lawn. They mow, edge and make sure the grass clippings don’t end up in your above ground pool.

Main Photo Credit: Chris Grazioli | flickr | CC BY 2.0

And from a pool design standpoint, above ground pools can look just as fantastic as their inground counterparts. Surprised? Don’t be. Above ground pools have come a long way in the past few years—and pool owners have gotten more creative with their above ground pool design hacks.

Need some great above ground pool design ideas? Not sure which design elements suit you? In this article, we take a look at 8 things you can do to make an above ground pool look beautiful.

1. Surround it with a deck.

A patio instantly enhances the look of any above ground swimming pool. And the best part about a pool deck is that the possibilities are almost endless, from traditional wooden decking to alternatives made from eco-friendly (and low-maintenance) recycled materials.

Pool Design Tip: Raise the Deck for an Inground Pool If you like the look of an inground pool, consider a raised deck: by bringing the floor to the edge of your above ground pool, you can achieve the same look.

2. Take things to the next level(s).

A multi-level pool deck can add interest to an otherwise plain outdoor patio area. Adding layers can also create the illusion of having multiple rooms or areas – such as a bedroom. E.g. a dining area – can help make a smaller space feel bigger.

3. Add a retaining wall.

If you love your in-ground pool—but don’t like the look of plain pool walls—consider enclosing your pool with a retaining wall. Looking for a classic look? Materials like wood paneling, stone (or engineered stone) can add instant interest and texture. Do you prefer a more modern vibe? Consider a poured concrete retaining wall for instant minimalist industrial chic.

Pool Design Tip: Mix materials for Instant Style wood and stone. concrete and steel. grass and gravel. By using a variety of materials and textures around your above ground pool, you can add interest and create a unique look. Don’t be afraid to play with unexpected combinations – the results might surprise you!

4. Cast shadows.

Is your pool in a particularly sunny spot? Do you live in a part of the country with almost year-round sunshine? Add a parasol or pergola over your above ground pool for a perfect combination of form and sunburn protection.

5. Design a lounge area.

Add some oomph to the area around your above ground pool by creating an intentional, thoughtfully planned lounging area with comfortable seating. This is also a great opportunity to personalize your outdoor space with decorative touches like outdoor cushions and throw pillows, indoor/outdoor accent rugs, and accent tables.

6. Liven things up with landscaping.

When designing your ideal pool area, few elements are as important as landscaping. From flowering plants and lush, green grass to shady trees and trendy succulents, the right combination of plants can really tie the entire space together.

Pool design tip: keep things in check You love the idea of ​​a pool surrounded by lush greenery—but you don’t have the space (or the time and money) required for an extensive landscaping design. Don’t worry: you can get the look of live, lush plants in half the time (and cost) with a container garden. All you need is some good quality potting soil, a pair of gardening gloves and a few terracotta pots and you have an instant pool design upgrade.

7. Set the mood with lighting.

It doesn’t matter if your pool is above ground, below ground or somewhere in between, if you want your pool to look great, you need to think about the lighting. Not only do pool lights help make your pool safer, they can also help you up your outdoor decorating game: many pool light kits come in a range of color options, and some even come with pre-programmed “light” displays. ”

Pool Design Tip: Don’t Forget Landscape Lighting! For even more poolside ambiance, don’t limit your lighting to the pool itself. Add a few tiki torches around your patio, string fairy lights, or hang a lantern or two in key gathering spaces.

8. Make your pool the main attraction.

Some above ground pools can work amazingly well as your main outdoor design element. If you’re going for a simple, minimalist aesthetic, a lap pool with sleek wood paneling and a few well-placed pool lights can double as a water feature. If you prefer a more resort-style look, consider adding a bubbling fountain to your above-ground pool for an instant touch of luxury.

Building a patio for a pool requires a little extra planning. Show more photos

You can place a pool on a wooden deck if several factors are taken into account in the construction. Pools are of course very heavy. And lots of water will splash, pour and drip onto your wooded patio, potentially weakening it over time. After all, the moving water in your pool causes a lot of fluctuation and stress on a wooden deck. Construct a deck that can withstand the weight and stress of a pool.

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construction

Make sure your deck structure is solid and very strong. A simple deck of a few 6-by-1 slats over a few 2-by-4 bars won’t do the job. Your deck should be built with at least 2 x 8 joists spaced no more than 12 inches across the width of the deck. 10 inch 2 by 10s are preferable.

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Supporting foundation piles must be 4 x 4 seawater treated lumber secured in a minimum 8 inch concrete foundation. Remember that the deck will not only support the weight of the pool, but also the stresses of running water.

To accommodate side loads, X-braces should be installed at 12″ intervals between joists. This will prevent the beams from bending from side to side when there is a large amount of water moving in the pool.

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Finally, the flooring for your terrace must have an even gap between the planks so that the water can drain off sufficiently. Water must drain properly below deck to courtyard or other open area. Standing puddles under a deck can not only cause wood rot on the foundations, but are also places where mosquitoes and other insects can gather and breed.

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seal

Whenever possible, use marine-treated lumber in the construction of your deck. This wood is used in the construction of piers and docks in both fresh and salt water. Once finished, seal the deck annually with a good quality wood sealer coating. Also, if possible, remove the pool each fall when swimming season ends. This allows the wood under the pool to dry completely and be sealed before use the following season.

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maintenance

A deck surface must be kept clean and checked for cracks or splinters to protect bare feet. Even the best sealed marine treated lumber can still absorb some water and lead to wood rot. Also, every time your deck gets damaged through use, e.g. B. if a heavy object is dropped that will split the wood, allow the wood to dry, sand and seal the damage. All standing water must be channeled and drained.

Above ground pools are common in people’s yards. But when it comes time to remove, it can get tricky. I had to remove my above ground pool a few years ago because it was falling apart. In this article I want to teach you how to fix the garden after removing your above ground pool!

It was either already in the property when you bought it, or you bought and installed the pool to cool off a bit in the summer. However, this pool’s charm would eventually fade, and it’s just a complete eyesore in the backyard. You want to remove it properly. People remove above ground pools for so many reasons aside from not wanting or needing the pool anymore.

Maybe you have other plans for your garden than having a huge pool there. It might take up too much space for you to build anything else there. Whatever the reason, dismantling the pool would take a lot of work and money. So before you decide, here are a few things to consider before getting rid of an above ground pool.

Should I get rid of my above ground pool?

Now the question is: should you get rid of that above ground pool in your backyard? There is no exact answer to this, but you can reevaluate a few reasons.

For one, if you don’t use the pool and see it as a major nuisance throughout your home, you might as well get rid of it. When you do this, there are fewer dangers or dangers around your home. Some parts of the pool, especially the posts and railings, can cause injury. This becomes more of a concern as the pool ages and falls apart. Because above ground pools hold such heavyweights, they can see some major damage. When I helped my parents remove their above ground pool, the physical damage to the pool was incredible. The frame was bent and had a lot of rust. We were just grateful we didn’t keep the pool running for another season, it wouldn’t have been safe.

In any case, removing your pool means no more maintenance costs either. You don’t have to spend extra money on minor repairs and water maintenance for damage caused by weather changes or simple wear and tear. In addition, it is very expensive to keep the pool heated depending on where you live. I live in Canada and heating the pool costs so much…

Next, the most significant benefit is that you now have more space in your garden for whatever you want to do with it.

However, removing your above ground pool also comes with some downsides. It involves a lot of work. Not only will you have to dismantle and remove the pool from your yard, you will also need to repair the area where it once stood. Repairing your garden can cost a lot of money depending on the damage that has been done to your garden and how you want to restore it. Prepare for a payout of around $5,000 to $15,000.

Keep in mind that you can do much of this work yourself to keep costs down. I do not recommend this to be a solo job, please have a friend or hire someone to help. Pool parts can be heavy and sharp, the more help the quicker and easier this job becomes. It can also take 3-5 days to get things done and expect a little delay from the city inspectors depending on how many residents they are servicing. If you choose to fix it yourself, it may mean taking time off work and other commitments to get it fixed right away.

Eventually – and let’s put it this way – you’re out of a pool. No more fun and cooling off in summer. It’s not a big loss, but you might miss it for a while. Removing and installing a new pool is always an option, before doing so, still verify that the pool area location is stable and ready for another pool.

How to fix the yard after the above ground pool in 7 steps

You can remove your above ground pool and repair your garden yourself. It can take days and a lot of time and work, so get ready. Prepare yourself with the right tools and make sure you do it right. Find local pool experts and ask questions, it never hurts!

1. Drain water and remove pool

Make sure your pool is properly drained. Don’t just dump it anywhere, that amount of water standing in your yard could stay there for days and it could cause serious or minor problems on your land. You may have seen people cut/slit their pool liners and this is a big no from me. The amount of water that leaks can really harm you and your property.

We have always drained our pool by siphoning the water with a garden hose and directing it down a rain drain. These drains are located on the street. If you don’t have one near your home, run the water down the street until it reaches a rain drain. All public roads should be built in such a way that water can drain properly.

The downside to this emptying method is the time it takes. If a round pool is 20 feet or larger, it can take up to 4 days. Increasing the number of garden hoses used speeds this up.

This isn’t the only way to drain your pool, there are faster methods. For example, a popular choice is a sump pump that pumps out the water much faster. Superior Pump’s Utility Pump is the most popular choice because it pumps 1800 gallons per hour and is extremely affordable.

Check out the time it would take you using Superior Pump’s Utility Pump in the graph below:

Pool Size Time with Superior Supply Pump (1800 gallons per hour) 12 ft round (3000 gallons) 1.66 hours 21 ft round (9100 gallons) 5.05 hours 30 ft round (19000 gallons) 10.55 hours 12 x 24 ft oval ( 6000 gallons) 3.33 hours 18 x 33 ft oval (12500 gallons). ) 6.94 hours

If you are unsure of where to dispose of all your pool water, you can always contact your local government agencies/consultants for advice on how to properly dispose of water.

Once the water is drained, remove your pool. You can contact an expert or follow the instructions from the pool manual. Sometimes disassembling your pool can be easy, remove the liner and start disassembling your pool frame. Any foam underneath can also be easily removed.

2. Determine the damage

After removing the pool you can now see how much damage it has done to your yard.

Above ground pools are usually built on a bottom filled with sand and soil. It’s typical to see just that without weed. When you see what’s under the pool, you can see how much work you have to do.

When planting grass over the soil/sand you can now determine how much topsoil you need. I recommend reading our article titled How to Grow Weed on Hardpacked Dirt, this will help you understand the weed growth process.

Some damage you may see is land deformation from the pool, cracks in the surface, drain lines, shifting decks, rotting decks and more. Pay attention to the issues that need fixing or if they are ready to go with the pool.

One tip you can do is use landscaping paint to mark the areas that you need to fix. Also mark around the pool where soil is needed. Give it a 3 foot tolerance from the edges of the pool area. This tip will help you calculate how much soil is needed and what exactly needs repairing.

Look at the drainage or plumbing lines that were used for the pool and see if you can use the same line to install sprinklers or an irrigation system for your yard. This will also help determine if you need to remove some of the drainage or just leave it there.

Also check the area for moldy plants or weeds that may have grown over time while the pool was in place. Be sure to remove them to maintain a healthy garden.

If there is a smell of various plants under your pool, you need to find the problem and remove it from your yard. Sand and soil underneath can have fungus and it may be best to remove everything completely rather than risk overplanting. You can always hire experienced excavators for this job, but it’s not a cheap option.

3. Check electrical and gas lines

Always check the electricity and gas lines that may be near the pool area. You don’t want to accidentally hit them and cause a bigger problem than just clearing a pool yard.

Regarding this, consult an expert to know where these lines are. This information can be easily found by surveying your property. Once these lines have been installed, you should have access to this information.

4. Remove pelvic floor

When you’re sure you won’t hit any power or gas lines, it’s time to remove the pool floor.

Most likely you would find a dead grass floor filled with sand, gravel and other fillers. For my pool, we used large concrete blocks for stronger bottom support. Make sure you delete them completely.

If it’s just filled with sand or dirt, see if you can use it to repair the damaged area. Some sands can be used for gardening, while others (like beach sand) are completely useless.

If the sand or dirt qualifies as the perfect garden fill, be sure to cultivate or rake it to ensure there is no trash, clay, or other organic matter that could damage your garden.

If not, you can use an excavator machine to quickly remove them from the area. Or you can choose to scoop it up if that’s not possible. However, it will mean more work.

5. Fill the area with soil

Now it’s time to fill in the area with soil. Make sure you have the right type of soil and topsoil—and the right ratio, too.

The rule is 80% fill material (which can be dirt or debris) and 20% topsoil. This will ensure that the soil is less hard or soft enough for seeds or turf to grow. Planting grass requires about 6 inches of topsoil above the top.

Also, the soil should be tilled to ensure that the soil is not too compacted. Otherwise the seeds will not grow because they will feel smothered and will not have room for the base to dig deeper into the soil for nutrients.

6. Add grass seed

Add grass seed or sod, making sure it’s evenly distributed to ensure grass doesn’t grow in clumps.

If this seems a bit difficult for you, you can use a seed broadcaster.

Once the seeds are distributed, use a lawn roller or other gardening tool that you need to use to press the grass and smooth the surface. This not only ensures that the ground is level; This will help the seeds bury themselves properly underground.

7. Water and Fertilizer

Finally, make sure to add some fertilizer to the soil. Check the fertilizer bag to see how much fertilizer you should apply per area. Never over-fertilize your seeds.

If you have a working plumbing and drainage system, you can build sprinklers around it. You can also use your garden hose or travel sprinkler. Just make sure the water jet is light so as not to drown the seeds.

Do you think this is too much work? You can always call an experienced landscaper or contractor to do the job for you. But after applying soil, adding Scotts Thick Turf Builder is super easy. Follow the instructions and the grass will grow quickly.

DIY and other creative ideas after pool removal

It would be nice to see your yard cleaned up and put to good use again after you remove your above ground pool. Just because your pool is gone doesn’t mean you shouldn’t fill that space with something new!

But if you want to add more beauty and functionality to your yard, here are some creative ideas on what to do with the yard space you now have after removing your above ground pool.

Garden

Fireplace

build terrace

outdoor kitchen

playground

outdoor jacuzzi

trampoline area

outdoor fitness park

The best part about finally removing that above ground pool and clearing out your yard is that you are free to do whatever you want with your yard space.

Use your creativity. Maximize your space. Build something that will bring both value and joy to you and your family.

Pool Safe When it’s time for a swim or a backyard pool party, the last thing you want is shoveling mulch out of your pool. If you use any type of natural mulch around the pool, you can be confident that you will find floating debris or decomposing materials in the water and in your filters. Put simply, rubber mulch stays in place. It will not be blown into the pool with other leaves or debris. Rubber mulch helps keep your pool clean and pristine, as does the landscaping around it.

Durability A product that is exposed to the elements day after day must withstand the elements. The sun can eat through and dry out most materials. Backed by a 12-year color-lock guarantee, GroundSmart™ Rubber Mulch will not fade or degrade in the sun. Likewise, rubber mulch is not washed away or blown away by rain and wind. Your pool area will continue to look great year after year, rain or shine.

Big Savings and Low Maintenance All this longevity also means low maintenance. The longevity of our rubber mulch means you don’t have to replace it every year. Compared to wood or gravel, this means a 73% cost saving over the life of the mulch as you don’t have to buy it new every season. Plus, all the time you save from not having to redo your landscape beds every year means more time to enjoy your pool.

Kid Safe Child safety around the pool area should always be a top priority. Rubber Mulch has proven to be a top performer when it comes to fall protection. Should someone slip and fall, all areas covered with rubber mulch provide better cushioning than grass, dirt, or other mulches. GroundSmart™ Rubber Mulch is made from IPEMA certified material, which means our rubber mulch cushions the effects of a fall. Because of its soft composition, rubber mulch also provides splinter protection for bare feet.

Expand your current deck

Before deciding to extend an existing patio, you should speak to your local building authority. This may not be allowed in your region for a variety of reasons. You might want to bring some pictures of the existing deck to explain your situation. The inspector will usually want to review the permit and inspection records for the existing deck and may request an as-built frame inspection to verify the condition of the deck before issuing a permit.

Most decks are not built with future additions or expansion in mind. Because of this, your frost foundations are probably not large enough to support the new loads created by the addition. We recommend framing the new deck extension independently of the existing frame. To do this you will need to install new joists and foundations to support the addition.

Some deck builders prefer to put the new joists back over the existing joist and install a new joist in front of the existing deck. The sister joists are nailed into the sides of the existing joists and extend at least 6 inches beyond the joist. Hurricane joints are used to create a positive joist to joist connection. It may be necessary to install new posts and foundations under the existing deck beams to support the additional loads. Most people who expand their decks also replace the decking and railings on the existing deck at the same time. This creates a more seamless complement with no noticeable color and weather differences in the materials.

Does your above ground pool need replacing? We are here to help | 18.7.2018

A quality above ground pool from Valley Pool & Spa should last between 10 and 20 years depending on how well you take care of it. However, your pool liner will not last as long as your pool. Consult a pool expert at our store to see if you need a new liner before deciding to replace your entire pool. Here are some signs you need a new above ground pool:

Your pool is more than 10 years old – If your pool is 10 years or older and you are having problems with it, it might be time to start looking for a replacement. However, you may need to replace the liner more than once during the life of your pool. So make sure these issues don’t go beyond the lining first.

The pool is leaking – Anything designed to hold water will eventually leak, so don’t worry if it first happens. Normally all you need is an above ground pool repair in Pittsburgh, PA. However, if the leak is severe and replacing your liner doesn’t fix the problem, you may need a new pool. If you find yourself refilling the pool too often, it can be a sign of a serious leak.

The pool wall is rusty – Rust can form on the pool wall under the liner. Usually this isn’t a big deal as you can easily sand it down and coat it with a rust preventative. However, if the rust is severe, it’s time for a replacement.

Repair or replace? – Depending on the condition of your pool, you may need to either repair or replace it. Call Valley Pool & Spa at one of our six Pittsburgh area locations to have your pool assessed by an expert.

Did you know that the average pool owner, when “using” their pool, spends approximately 90% of their time on the pool deck and not in the pool? Interesting hmm!

This makes the pool deck an essential part of the poolscape that you need to get right… and hopefully the first time!

However, when budgets are tight, which they always are, the first thing to usually sacrifice is pool deck space. Having worked with thousands of in-ground pool clients, their main regret is that they underestimated the importance of their swimming pool deck and either don’t get enough decking or plan to add deck extensions in the future.

Ok, now I’ll get off my soapbox and give you some pool deck guidelines so you can determine how much space you actually need.

How much deck space do I need for my in-ground pool?

Most people need between 600 and 900 square feet of patio space around a pool. That’s enough space for a table and chair set, some chaise lounges and a comfortable walking area around the pool. Consolidate most of the patio into 1 or 2 areas rather than dividing them evenly around the pool.

How much patio space do different pool features require?

A conversation area for 3 to 6 people requires a 10’x10′ space.

A dining area for four should be at least 10 inches by 10 inches.

A dining area for six to eight people should be at least 12 inches by 12 inches.

A chase lounge requires an area of ​​4’x7′, but 7’x7′ for two people.

You want a minimum of 30 inches of space between patio furniture and the edge of the pool.

Pathways and other traffic areas should be at least 3 feet wide at all points.

Two chairs and a small table require an area of ​​6’x6′.

A grill and a small side table will require at least 6’x6′.

Six feet of space is required between the base of a stairway and the water’s edge of the pool.

An average hot tub occupies a space of 10 feet by 10 feet.

A fire pit requires 30″-36″ of clearance between the fire pit and the furniture or seating area.

A slide requires a minimum area of ​​7 feet by 15 feet adjacent to the pool.

Diving boards require a minimum area of ​​8 feet long and 6 feet wide at the end of the pool.

Allow at least 24″-30″ of space between each water feature and the edge of the patio.

An outdoor shower requires an area of ​​at least 5’x5′.

The average pool deck is about 600 to 900 square feet, but many are much larger.

Set up later on your patio

Have you added up your needs and found that it just doesn’t fit into the budget? Do not be discouraged.

Take a step-by-step approach to your pool deck. This is very doable as long as it is planned.

How to do that will be the subject of another article, but the most important thing now is to determine how much patio space you need; whether you get it now or later.

This ensures that at least 90% of the time you spend near your pool is enjoyed to the fullest!

I hope you found this helpful.

Thanks and happy swimming as always!

Next:

5 ways to make your pool project more affordable

A guide to inground pool size, cost and price: everything you need to know

Ultimate pool planning guide: 11 things to consider before installing an inground pool

Editor’s note: This blog article was updated on November 12, 2020.

Scala Travertine by Eco Outdoor

A swimming pool is on the wish list of many homeowners as it can be a complementary addition to your outdoor space and lifestyle. The first question most people ask when thinking about a pool is “Can I afford a swimming pool?”. This is quickly followed by the question: “Do I have enough space in my garden for a swimming pool?”

How much space do you need for a swimming pool?

A swimming pool can be a visually appealing feature and the main element of your outdoor living space. When you decide to install a pool, you want the goal of your design to be to integrate it seamlessly with your outdoor space so you can enjoy it all year round. Determining how much space you need for a pool and how much space you have to spare is critical to the overall success and functionality of your space.

Consider position and room layout

This means that the focus should be on positioning the pool and allocating enough space around the pool. After all, you don’t want to open your doors and practically end up in your pool with a splash!

To maximize the use of your outdoor space, consider the following:

Would you like a lawn for children to play or for your pets?

Imagine lounging on a lounger by the water?

Is outdoor entertainment on your priority list?

Want extra features like a shower or pool house?

Is privacy required to overlook neighbors?

Would you like garden beds and a gentle landscape around your pool?

Aside from your personal outdoor space requirements, you need to look at your survey to determine the actual usable area of ​​your yard. Key areas to consider when planning a swimming pool:

Easements:

Side and rear easements are key to determining where you can position your pool as these are required for utilities to provide underground services.

flood zone:

In principle, it is forbidden to erect permanent structures such as a swimming pool in a floodplain without significant structural measures. Otherwise flood water could accumulate in the area and compromise the integrity of your pool structure.

Distance from place of residence:

Some municipalities require the swimming pool to be a certain distance from the home.

Fencing:

When planning your pool, you must follow local pool fencing regulations, which may dictate location and size. It may be wise to start with the pool fence before designing the pool itself.

Pools are a practical feature, especially when the weather is nice. However, it is important to remember that when a pool is not in use it is purely for visual purposes. You want to make sure that your outdoor space not only looks good, but also performs at its best.

The most common pool sizes

Pools come in many shapes and sizes, generally only limited by the dimensions of the garden and your budget. Rectangular pools remain the most popular, but plunge and lap pools are great options for those with limited space. This corresponds to the following sizes from smallest to largest:

Family Size Pools:

7 x 3 meters

8 x 4 meters

9 x 4 meters

plunge pool:

5 x 3 meters

6 x 4 meters

7 x 3 meters

lap pool:

9 x 2.5 meters

10 x 3 meters

15 x 3 meters

How much space your pool will take up in your backyard depends on your outdoor needs. As a general guide, the pool and pool surround should take up approximately 25% of the total outdoor area. This frees up space to create an entertainment area or a play area for the kids. You can use the extra space to put up a shed, install a clothesline, or build a vegetable patch.

To maximize your practical space around the pool, assume that the paved or decked area around its perimeter is approximately 50% of the pool’s surface area. This gives you enough space to move safely around the pool and to position garden furniture at the water’s edge.

For more pool tips and advice, visit the pool section of our learning library.

Main image: Preston Lane with Mollard granite paving.

Where the deck meets the pool edge

by Derek

(St Louis, MO)

Just wondering what is the most practical way to build the deck where it meets my above ground pool.

Should it be built over the pool railing or level with the pool railing and how can I ensure I can easily remove and replace my pool cover?

When installing a new above ground pool, you need to consider the space you will have to work in. Not only do you need to have enough space to accommodate the pool, but you also need to make sure it is far enough away from property lines to avoid problems for neighboring properties. There are also regulations that dictate how far the pool must be from the home to avoid electrical problems from flooding, leaks, or splashing. Also, you need to think ahead enough to see if your future plans might include adding a deck, patio, or some other type of structure.

Choosing a location

When trying to figure out if you have enough space for a backyard pool, you also need to consider planning the location for your pool. Pools work best in areas with plenty of sunlight, which can act as a natural water heater. You also benefit from a wind-protected location. This reduces the amount of evaporation that occurs and slows down the heat loss of the water. However, avoid placing the pool too close to trees or shrubs that will drop leaves or pollen into your pool, or you will spend more time cleaning the water than actually swimming.

property lines

You also need to keep your pool away from property lines and other surrounding structures. Local zoning ordinances dictate how far a pool must be from setbacks and relief. Because of these zoning regulations, you may actually need a lot more space than you initially thought. Depending on the size of your yard, this may affect the size of pool you can install.

National and local requirements

There is a national standard that requires all swimming pools to be at least 10 feet from the walls of a home. As already mentioned, this protects the electrical wiring from leaks, flooding and splashes. And while this is a national requirement, local regulations may dictate that the pool must be located even further from the home. These rules can be enforced by the county, municipality, or even the local housing association. It’s important to check with all the different regulatory bodies to ensure your pool remains legal. You could be subject to significant fines and be ordered to dismantle your new possession for non-compliance.

basin dimensions

Also keep in mind that you may need more space around your pool than the actual dimensions of the pool itself. Some pools require additional support along the perimeter walls and you will need additional space to accommodate that support. Make sure you understand exactly how much space the pool needs to be functional.

Now that you know the guidelines for how far an above ground pool should be from your home, download a buyer’s guide to learn more about our above ground pool models.